OverviewFollow the instructions in this installation guide to gimbal mount the control head. We encourage you to read this guide before starting the installation, so you may understand the installation requirements.

SUPPLIES: In addition to the hardware supplied with your control head, you will need a powered hand drill and various drill bits, Phillips head screwdriver, flat head screwdriver, pencil, safety glasses and dust mask, marine-grade silicone sealant, dielectric grease (optional), extension cables (optional), Ethernet cables (optional), and accessory cables (optional). Also, see Connect Power to determine the type of connection, fuse size, and additional equipment you will need for the installation.

Accessories and Ethernet: Accessories and Ethernet equipment are available for purchase. The installation guides are available with the product, or they can be downloaded from our Web site.

1. Plan the Mounting Location

1. Install the gimbal knobs into each side of the control head. Tighten the knobsjust enough so you can slide the control head into the gimbal bracket arms.

NOTE: If you prefer to mount the control head overhead, flip the bracket to thetop of the control head. The opening in the gimbal bracket arms must face the rearof the control head.

2. Place the assembled control head in various locations to determine the bestmounting location with the following requirements:

• a stable, protected surface to protect the control head from excessivewave shock, vibration, and water

• sufficient space for the control head tilt range

• visibility during operation, as well as easy installation and removal

• access above and below the mounting surface to pass the cablesthrough to the control head

• space for the 1" (25 mm) cable hole located 2" to 4" (50 to 100 mm)behind the chosen mounting location

3. Test route all cables (transducer, power, Ethernet, accessories) to the controlhead mounting location. Leave enough cable length for installing the cable trayand for the control head tilt range.

4. After you have selected the mounting location, loosen the gimbal knobs andremove the control head from the gimbal bracket.

2. Install the Gimbal Bracket1. Place the gimbal bracket in the chosen position on the mounting surface. Mark

the four outer mounting screw locations using a pencil or center punch.

NOTE: The outer set of mounting holes is recommended. You may use theinside set of mounting holes if necessary.

2. Set the gimbal bracket aside. Drill the four mounting screw holes using a 5/32"(4 mm) drill bit.

3. Cable Hole:Mark and drill a 1" (25 mm) hole 2" to 4" (50 to 100 mm) behindthe bracket. You will use this hole for routing the cables to the control head inanother section.

4. Place the bracket on the mounting surface aligned with the drilled holes. Fill themounting holes with marine-grade silicone sealant.

5. Place one flat washer onto each #10 x 1" wood screw. Insert the four screwswith washers into the mounting holes (see the illustration Installing theGimbal Bracket). Hand tighten only!

Assembling the Control Head and Bracket

gimbal knob

bracket arm

Installing the Gimbal Bracket

bracket hole(s)

screw(s)

back

washer(s)

3. Connect PowerIt is important to review the following information before you start the powerinstallation:

• Cable Length: A 6' (2 m) long power cable is included. You may shorten orlengthen the cable using 18 gauge multi-stranded copper wire. See theRecommended Power Cable Extension Information table for details.

• Power Supply: The control head must be connected to a 12 VDC powersupply using the fuse size shown in the Required Fuse Size table.

• Fuse Panel or Battery: The control head power cable can be connected tothe electrical system of the boat at the fuse panel (usually located near theconsole), or directly to the battery. In order to minimize the potential forinterference with other marine electronics, a separate power source (suchas a second battery) may be necessary.

1. Confirm that the power cable is disconnected from the control head.

2. Connect the power cable wires to the fuse panel or battery as follows:

Fuse Terminal Connection: Use crimp-on typeelectrical connectors (not included) that match theterminal on the fuse panel. Attach the black wireto ground (–), and the red wire to positive (+) 12VDC power. Install the required fuse (as shown inthe Required Fuse Size table).

Battery Connection: Install an inline fuse holder(not included) and the required fuse (as shown inthe Required Fuse Size table). Attach the blackwire to ground (–), and the red wire to positive(+) 12 VDC power.

NOTE: For multi-control head installations and troubleshooting information, download the Power Troubleshooting Guide from our Web site. Also, see the Operations Summary Guide to set the Low Battery Alarm and use Standby Mode to conserve power.

4. Route the Cables to the Control Head1. Sonar: Proceed to your transducer installation guide and follow the

instructions to install the transducer.

2. Accessories (optional): Install accessories using the guides provided with them.

3. Ethernet (optional): Install Ethernet cables and hardware using the EthernetInstallation Guide.

NOTE: The installation guides for Ethernet and optional-purchase accessories are available with your product, and they can be downloaded from our Web site.

4. Route all cables to the control head. Your boat may have a pre-existing wiringchannel or conduit that you can follow. Route the cables as far as practical fromthe antenna cable of VHF radios or tachometer cables to reduce the possibilityof interference.

3.39|| (86 mm)4.5|| (114 mm)

1.02||

(26 mm) 1.5||

(38 mm)

Bracket Hole Pattern Measurements

Recommended Power Cable Extension Information

Extension Length Wire Gauge

1 to 6 ft 18 AWG

6 to 12 ft 14 AWG

12 to 24 ft 12 AWG

Please consult a U.S. Coast Guard ABYC-approved wire gaugediagram or a certified NMEA Marine Electronics Installer.

Model Fuse Size

HELIX 9 3A

HELIX 9 G2N 4A

HELIX 10 3A

HELIX 10 G2N 4A

HELIX 12 4A

HELIX 12 G2N 5A

Required Fuse Size

WARNING! Some boats have 24 or 36 Volt electric systems, but thecontrol head MUST be connected to a 12 VDC power supply.

WARNING! Make sure that the power cable is disconnected fromthe control head at the beginning of this procedure.

WARNING! Humminbird® is not responsible for over-voltage or over-current failures. The control head must have adequate protection throughthe proper selection and installation of the fuse size shown in theRequired Fuse Size table.

GROUNDGROUND

PO

SIT

IVE

PO

SIT

IVE

Inline Fuse Holder

CAUTION! Do NOT mount the cables where the connectors could besubmerged in water or flooded. If cables are installed in a splash-prone area,it may be helpful to apply dielectric grease to the inside of the connectorsto prevent corrosion. Dielectric grease can be purchased separately from ageneral hardware or automotive store.

5. Pass the cables through the cable hole.

5. Assemble the Cable TrayThe cable tray is an important part of the control head installation. It secures thecables and protects them from potential damage.

1. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws from the bottom of thecable tray.

2. Hold the cable tray together and turn it over, so the Humminbird logo isfacing up. Lift the cover and set it aside.

3. See the illustration Locating the Cable Tray Slots. Insert each cableconnector into the correct slots in the tray.

Each slot is shaped specifically for each connector, and insertion should be easy.Route the cables using the grooves in the tray.

CAUTION! It is important to place the connectors into the correct slots andright side up. See the illustration Locating the Cable Tray Slots for details.

4. Place the cover onto the tray. Hold the tray together and turn it over.

If the cable tray arms fall out, see the illustration Assembling the Cable Trayto put them back in place.

5. Install the screws in the holes on the bottom of the tray. Hand tighten only.See the illustration Removing the Screws to replace the screws. Handtighten only.

6. Turn over the cable tray so the Humminbird logo is facing up.

Confirm the cables hang straight, and untwist them if necessary.

7. Line up the slots on the cable tray with the matching ports on the back ofthe control head. Line up the cable tray pins with the holes on the controlhead (see the illustration Locating the Cable Tray Slots).

With the Humminbird logo facing up, plug the cable tray into the back ofthe control head. The cable tray clasps should click into place. See theillustration Connecting the Cable Tray to the Control Head.

Locating the Cable Tray SlotsCOM

(communications)Transducer Power

Ethernetpin pinTemp/Speed

Inserting the Cable Connectors into the Cable Tray

Power

Transducer

cable groove

power connector notch facing up

Turning over the Cable Tray

cover

Removing the Screws

Assembling the Cable Tray

keep arms in place

cover

Routing the Cables Behind the Bracket

8. Pull carefully on the cable tray to confirm the installation is secure. Make sureboth clasps clicked into place in step 7.

6. Secure the Control Head Installation1. Slide the control head into the bracket.

2. Confirm there is enough cable slack to allow for the control head to pivotthrough its full tilt range and for connecting or disconnecting the cables.

NOTE: If there is excess cable that needs to begathered at one location, dress the cable routedfrom both directions so that a single loop is leftextending from the storage location. Doubling thecable up from this point, form the cable into a coil.Storing excess cable using this method can reduceelectronic interference.

3. Adjust the control head to the viewing angle you prefer. Hand tighten thegimbal knobs until the assembly is secured. Hand tighten only!

Remove the Cable Tray (Optional): Squeeze the sides of the cable tray untilit releases.

7. Test the System Installation1. Press the POWER key to turn on the control head.

2. While the Title screen is shown on the display, press the MENU key.

3. Press the DOWN Cursor key to choose System Status, and press the RIGHTCursor key to select it.

NOTE: If you wait too long, the system will automatically start whichevermenu is highlighted, and you will have to start again.

4. Accessories: Press the VIEW key. Review the Accessory Test View to confirmaccessories are listed as connected.

NOTE: The speed will be detected only if the temp/speed paddlewheel(optional) has moved since the control head has been powered on.

5. GPS Reception: Press the VIEW key. Review the GPS Diagnostic View andconfirm that a latitude/longitude position is displayed and the Fix Type islisted as Enhanced or 3D.

6. Power Off: Press and hold the POWER key to power off the unit.

7. Sonar Test: Test and finalize the transducer installation using the instructionsin the transducer installation guide. When the transducer test andinstallation are completed, your control head is ready for on-the-wateroperation. When you power on the control head, it will start Normal modeautomatically if a functioning transducer is detected.

NOTE: For operations information, see the Operations Summary Guide included with your control head and the control head operations manual.

Storing Excess Cable

Connecting the Cable Tray to the Control Head

clasp

Humminbirdlogo facing up

line up with pinson cable tray

Removing the Cable Tray (Optional)

Important NoticesWARNING! This product contains chemicals known to the State of Californiato cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

WARNING! Disassembly and repair of this electronic unit should only beperformed by authorized service personnel. Any modification of the serial numberor attempt to repair the original equipment or accessories by unauthorizedindividuals will void the warranty.

WARNING! This device should not be used as a navigational aid to preventcollision, grounding, boat damage, or personal injury. When the boat is moving,water depth may change too quickly to allow time for you to react. Always operatethe boat at very slow speeds if you suspect shallow water or submerged objects.

FCC NOTICE: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subjectto the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2)this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may causeundesired operation.

CAUTION! This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limitsfor a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits aredesigned to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in aresidential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radiofrequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is noguarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If thisequipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, whichcan be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged totry to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

� • Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

� • Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

� • Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that towhich the receiver is connected.

� • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE STATEMENT: It is the intention ofJohnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc. to be a responsible corporate citizen, operatingin compliance with known and applicable environmental regulations, and a good neighborin the communities where we make or sell our products.

WEEE DIRECTIVE: EU Directive 2002/96/EC “Waste of Electrical and ElectronicEquipment Directive (WEEE)” impacts most distributors, sellers, and manufacturers ofconsumer electronics in the European Union. The WEEE Directive requires the producer ofconsumer electronics to take responsibility for the management of waste from theirproducts to achieve environmentally responsible disposal during the product life cycle.

WEEE compliance may not be required in your location for electrical & electronic equipment(EEE), nor may it be required for EEE designed and intended as fixed or temporaryinstallation in transportation vehicles such as automobiles, aircraft, and boats. In someEuropean Union member states, these vehicles are considered outside of the scope of theDirective, and EEE for those applications can be considered excluded from the WEEEDirective requirement.

This symbol (WEEE wheelie bin) on product indicates the product must not bedisposed of with other household refuse. It must be disposed of and collected forrecycling and recovery of waste EEE. Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc. willmark all EEE products in accordance with the WEEE Directive. It is our goal to

comply in the collection, treatment, recovery, and environmentally sound disposal of those products; however, these requirements do vary within European Union member states. For more information about where you should dispose of your waste equipment for recycling and recovery and/or your European Union member state requirements, please contact your dealer or distributor from which your product was purchased.

HELIX™ SERIES CONTROL HEADINSTALLATION GUIDE

HELIX_Control_Head_IG_532405-3_A.qxp_Layout 1 8/19/16 12:06 PM Page 1

Use the instructions in this guide to install the transducer on the transom of theboat.

Supplies: In addition to the hardware supplied with your transducer, you willneed a powered hand drill and various drill bits, various hand tools, including aruler or straightedge, a level, a socket driver, a 12" plumb line (weighted string ormonofilament line), marker or pencil, safety glasses and dust mask, marine-gradesilicone sealant, and dielectric grease (optional). You may also need extensioncables and hardware for routing the cable to the control head.

NOTE: Your transducer may not look exactly like the transducer shown in the illustrations, but it will mount in exactly the same way.

NOTE: When drilling holes in fiberglass hulls, it is best to start with a smaller bit and use progressively larger drill bits to reduce the chance of chipping or flaking the outer coating.

NOTE: If the included transducer will not work for your application, you may exchange it, NEW and UNASSEMBLED, with mounting hardware included, for a transducer appropriate for your application - often at very little or no charge depending on the transducer.

Preparation 1. Install the control head before you start the transducer installation. See the

control head installation guide.

2. Read the instructions in this transducer guide completely to understand themounting guidelines before starting the installation.

Installation There are a number of ways to install a transducer on your boat. The transommount installation provides the least loss of signal since the transducer is mountedoutside the boat hull. This installation also allows adjustment of both runningangle and depth after the transducer is mounted, which enables you to tune theinstallation for best results.

New Installation: Proceed to section 1. Locating the Transducer MountingPosition.

Previously-Installed XNT Transducer: If you have a previously-installed XNTtransducer on the transom, the bracket in this installation kit can be installed inthe same location using the following instructions:

1. Line up the metal bracket with the previously-used mounting holes toconfirm that the two slot holes match the previous installation. Fill anyunused holes with marine-grade sealant.

2. Make sure the boat is level on the trailer, both from port to starboard andfrom bow to stern, by placing your level on the deck of the boat, first in onedirection, then in the other.

3. Proceed to section 3. Assembling the Transducer and Initial Mounting.

1. Locating the Transducer Mounting PositionTurbulence: You must first determine the best location on the transom toinstall the transducer. It is very important to locate the transducer in an areathat is relatively free of turbulent water. Consider the following to find thebest location with the least amount of turbulence:

• As the boat moves through the water,turbulence is generated by the weight of theboat and the thrust of the propeller(s) - eitherclockwise or counterclockwise. This turbulentwater is normally confined to areas immediatelyaft of ribs, strakes, or rows of rivets on thebottom of the boat, and in the immediate areaof the propeller(s). Clockwise propellers createmore turbulence on the port side. On outboardor inboard/outboard boats, it is best to locatethe transducer at least 15" (38.1 cm) to the sideof the propeller(s) (Figure 3).

• The best way to locate turbulence-free wateris to view the transom while the boat ismoving. This method is recommended ifmaximum high-speed operation is a highpriority. If this is not possible, select a locationon the transom where the hull forward of thislocation is smooth, flat, and free of protrusionsor ribs (Figure 1).

• On boats with stepped hulls, it may bepossible to mount the transducer on the step.Do not mount the transducer on the transombehind a step to avoid popping the transducerout of the water at higher speeds. Thetransducer must remain in the water for thecontrol head to maintain the sonar signal(Figure 2).

• If the transom is behind the propeller(s), it may be impossible to find anarea clear from turbulence, and a different mounting technique ortransducer type should be considered.

• If you plan to trailer your boat, do not mount the transducer too close totrailer bunks or rollers to avoid moving or damaging the transducer duringloading and unloading of the boat.

NOTE: If you require a high-speed application and cannot find a transom mount location that will work for your boat hull, a different mounting technique or transducer type should be considered. See the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section of our Web site or call Customer Service.

Figure 2

Stepped Hull

Step Rib

Areas of Possible Turbulence

Rivets StrakesTransom Hull

Figure 1

NOTE: Due to the wide variety of hulls, only general instructions arepresented in this installation guide. Each boat hull represents a unique setof requirements that should be evaluated prior to installation. It isimportant to read the instructions completely and understand themounting guidelines before beginning installation.

NOTE: Traveling over 65 mph with the transducer in the water is not recommended with the XNT 9 SI 180 T, XNT 9 DB 74 T, and XNT 14 74 T, as damage might occur. If speed above 65 mph is critical, a different mounting technique or another transducer type should be considered. See the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section of our Web site at or call Customer Service.

Find a turbulence-free location at least 15" (38.1 cm) from the propeller(s) and not in line with trailer bunks or rollers.

Figure 3

Side Imaging®: If you have a Side Imaging transducer, it has somespecial requirements because of its side viewing capabilities:

• The Side Imaging transducer must NOT have anything obstructingthe ‘view’ of the side looking beams. For example, nothing can be inthe line of sight of these beams (not a hull, motor, or othertransducer, etc. [Figure 4]).

NOTE: You may need to tilt the motor up and out of the way when usingthe side looking beams.

• In order for the side beams to be displayed accurately, the transducermust be mounted so that it is looking straight down in the waterwhen the boat is in the water.

NOTE: The hydrodynamic shape of yourtransducer allows it to point straight downwithout deadrise adjustment (Figure 5).

2. Preparing the Mounting LocationIn this procedure, you will determine the mounting location and drill twomounting holes, using the transducer mounting bracket as a guide.

1. Make sure the boat is level on the trailer, both from port to starboardand from bow to stern, by placing your level on the deck of the boat, firstin one direction, then in the other.

2. Hold the mounting bracket against thetransom of the boat in the location you haveselected (Figure 6). Align the brackethorizontally, using the level. Make sure thatthe lower corner of the bracket does notprotrude past the bottom of the hull, and thereis at least 1/4" (6 mm) clearance between thebottom of the bracket and the bottom of thetransom for fiberglass boats, and 1/8" (3 mm)clearance for aluminum boats (Figure 7).

NOTE: If you have a flat-bottomed aluminum boat,some additional adjustment may be needed toaccommodate the rivets on the bottom of the boat (thegap may need to be a little smaller than 1/8"). This willhelp you to avoid excessive turbulence at high speeds.

NOTE: If your propeller moves clockwise (in forward,as you're facing the stern of the boat from behind),mount the transducer on the starboard side, and alignthe bottom right corner of the mounting bracket withthe bottom of the boat. If your propeller movescounterclockwise (in forward, as you're facing thestern of the boat from behind), mount the transduceron the port side, and align the bottom left corner ofthe mounting bracket with the bottom of the boat.

3. Continue to hold the bracket on the transomof the boat, and use a pencil or marker to markwhere to drill the two mounting holes. Markthe drill holes near the top of each slot, makingsure that your mark is centered in the slot(Figure 8).

4. Make sure that the drill bit is perpendicular to the actual surface of thetransom, NOT parallel to the ground, before you drill. Using a 5/32"(4 mm) bit, drill the two holes only to a depth of approximately 1"(25.4 mm).

NOTE: When drilling holes in fiberglass hulls, it is best to start with a smaller bitand use progressively larger drill bits to reduce the chance of chipping or flaking theouter coating.

3. Assembling the Transducer and Initial MountingIn this procedure, you will assemble the transducer using the hardwareprovided, then mount it and make adjustments to its position without lockingit in place.

NOTE: You will initially assemble the transducer and the pivot arm by matchingthe two ratchets to a numbered position on the transducer knuckle. Furtheradjustments may be necessary.

1a. If you already know your transom angle, refer to the chart below for theinitial position to use to set the ratchets (Figure 9). If your transom isangled at 14 degrees (a common transom angle for many boats) useposition 1 for the ratchets. In either case, go to step 2.

or...

1b. If you do not know your transom angle,measure it using a plumb line (weightednylon string or monofilament line) exactly 12inches long. Hold the top of the plumb lineagainst the top of the transom with yourfinger, and wait until the line hangs straightdown (Figure 10). Using a ruler, measure thedistance from the bottom of the plumb lineto the back of the transom, then use thechart (Figure 9).

NOTE: It is important to take your measurement inthe location shown in Figure 10, from exactly 12inches (30.48 cm) down from the top of the transom.

2. Place the two ratchets, one on either side of the transducer knuckle, sothat the beads on each ratchet line up with the desired position numberon the knuckle (Figure 11a). If you are setting the ratchets at position 1,the beads on each ratchet will line up with the rib on the transducerknuckle to form one continuous line on the assembly (Figure 11b).

Side Imaging Transducer Mount Position

Unobstructed View: The jack plate gives thetransducer safe distance from the motor andturbulence. The Side Imaging has a clear viewside-to-side.

Obstructed View: The transducer is too close tomotor turbulence, and the Side Imaging view isblocked by the motor. The view cannot extendfrom side-to-side.

Figure 4

Figure 5Deadrise Angle

Boat Hull Types Require Different Mounting Positions

Positioning the Mounting Bracket

Level

Level

1/4” for fiberglass1/8” for aluminum

Figure 6

Figure 7

Using the Mounting Bracket toMark the Initial Drill Holes

mark initial drill holes

Figure 8

Figure 9

-2 -1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24Transom Angle (°)

Bead Alignment Number 1 4 2 5 3 1 4 2 5

25 26 27

3

28 29 30

1

Measured Distance (x)1.1cm1/2“

0.0 cm0“

2.5 cm1“

4.3 cm1 5/8“

5.9 cm2 3/8“

7.6 cm3“

9.3cm3 5/8“

11.1cm4 3/8“

12.9cm5“

14.9cm5 7/8“

16.9cm6 5/8“

TransomAngle indegrees (°)

MeasuredDistance (X)

Measuring the Transom Angle

Plumbline

Weight

Figure 10

NOTE: The third hole should not bedrilled until the angle and height of thetransducer is finalized, which you will notdo until a later procedure.

NOTE: The ratchets are keyed. Make sure that the square teeth on each ratchetface the square teeth on the transducer knuckle, and the triangular teeth faceoutward.

Hold the ratchets on the transducer knuckle until it snaps into place withthe other hand. Refer to the illustration (Figure 11d).

3. Install the pivot bolt with the rubber washers and flat washers as shownin the illustration Installing the Pivot Bolt. Install the nylock nut, but doNOT fully tighten it at this time (Figure 12).

CAUTION! Do not use a high speed driver on this combination of fasteners.Hand tighten only.

4. Align the mounting bracket transducer assembly with the drilled holesin the transom. With a 5/16" (8 mm) socket driver, mount the assemblyto the transom using the two #10 - 1" (25.4 mm) long screws provided.Hand-tighten only!

NOTE: Make sure that the mounting screws are snug, but do not fully tighten themounting screws at this time to allow the transducer assembly to slide foradjustment purposes.

5. Adjust the initial angle of the transducer from back to front by rotatingthe transducer until the side seam on the transducer is almost parallelwith the bottom of the boat, one click at a time in either direction(Figure 13).

6. Adjust the transducer assembly vertically, untilthe seam on the leading edge of thetransducer (the edge closest to the transom ofthe boat) is level and just slightly below thehull. (Figure 14)

• Downward Slant: The transducer has a naturaldownward slant of 4 to 5 degrees from leadingedge (closest to the boat transom) to trailingedge (farthest away from the boat). Looking atthe back of the transducer, the seam should beslightly below the bottom of the hull.

• Down Imaging® Transducers:A downward slantis not required for XNT 9 DI T, XNT 14 DI T. Adjustthe running angle so that the transducer isparallel to the water, and submerged in thewater, so that the beams point straight downduring operation.

7. Continue to adjust the transducer assemblyuntil the bracket is also level from port tostarboard (horizontally level as you look at thetransducer from behind the boat). (Figure 15)

8. Mark the correct position on the transom by tracing the silhouette of thetransducer mounting bracket with a pencil or marker.

9. Tighten the pivot bolt, using the nylock nut to lock the assembly. Handtighten only!

CAUTION! Do not use a high speed driver on this combination of fasteners.Hand tighten only.

Transducer Knuckle Positions

Figure 11a

Ratchets Placed in Position 1

Figure 11b

Beads

Ratchet

Rib atposition 1

Knuckle

Ratchets Placed in Position 2

Figure 11c

Fitting the Pivot Arm over the Ratchet

Figure 11d

Bead

Ratchet

Rib

nylock nut

flat washer

flat washerrubber washer

rubber washer

pivot bolt

nylock nut

flat washer

flat washerrubber washer

rubber washer

pivot bolt

Figure 12

nylock nut

flat washer

flat washerrubber washer

rubber washer

pivot bolt

Installing the Pivot Bolt

Adjusting the Initial Transducer Angle

One click too low

Trailing edge

Correctly aligned(transducer side seamaligned with boat bottom)

One click too high

Leading edge

One click too low

Trailing edge

One click too high

Leading edge

Correctly aligned(transducer side seamaligned with boat bottom)

One click too low

Trailing edge

Correctly aligned(transducer side seamaligned with boat bottom)

One click too high

Leading edge

Figure 13

seam aligned with boat hull

Adjusting the Transducer Mounting Position

Figure 14

Level

Level

Leveling the Mounting Assembly Horizontally

Figure 15

10. Hand-tighten the two mounting screws.

4. Routing the CableYou can route the cable over the transom or through a hole in the transomabove the waterline. Your boat may have a pre-existing wiring channel orconduit that you can use to route the cable. Select the routing method that isbest for your boat configuration, and purchase any extension cables, cableclips, clamps, etc. as needed.

Also, keep in mind the following:

• It is best to route the cable to the side of thetransducer so the transducer will not damagethe cable during movement.

• The transducer can pivot up to 90 degrees inthe bracket. Allow enough slack in the cable forthis movement.

• If you drill any holes, fill them with marine-grade silicone sealant.

CAUTION! Do not cut or shorten the transducercable, and try not to damage the cable insulation.Route the cable as far as possible from any VHF radioantenna cables or tachometer cables to reduce thepossibility of interference. If the cable is too short,extension cables are available to extend thetransducer cable up to a total of 50'. For assistance,contact Humminbird® Customer Service.

CAUTION! Do NOT mount the cables where theconnectors could be submerged in water or flooded.If cables are installed in a splash-prone area, it maybe helpful to apply dielectric grease to the inside ofthe connectors to prevent corrosion. Dielectric greasecan be purchased separately from a generalhardware or automotive store.

Excess Cable: If there is excess cable that needs tobe gathered at one location, dress the cable routedfrom both directions so that a single loop is leftextending from the storage location. Doubling thecable up from this point, form the cable into a coil.Storing excess cable using this method can reduceelectronic interference (Figure 17).

5. Connecting the Cable1. Connect the transducer cable to the transducer port on the control head.

See your control head installation guide for details.

The connector is keyed to prevent reversed installation, and insertionshould be easy. Do not force the connectors into the ports.

If the cable connector is round, hand tighten the screw nut to securethe cable connection. Hand tighten only!

6. Testing and Finishing the InstallationOnce you have installed both the control head and the transom transducer, andhave routed all the cables, you must perform a final test before locking thetransducer in place. Testing should be performed with the boat in water deeperthan 2 feet. The transducer should be fully submerged because the sonarsignal cannot pass through air.

1. Press the POWER key to turn on the control head.

If the transducer is detected, the control head will start Normal mode.

2. Select a Sonar View to display on-screen.

HELIX®: Press and hold the VIEW key. Select Sonar > Sonar View.

SOLIX™: Press the Home key. Select a Sonar View.

Other: See your control head operations manual.

3. If the bottom is visible on-screen with a digital depth readout, the unitis working properly.

4. If the unit is working properly, gradually increase the boat speed to testhigh-speed performance. If the unit functions well at low speeds, butbegins to skip or miss the bottom at higher speeds, the transducerrequires adjustment.

NOTE: The Down Imaging Transducer (XNT 9 DI T, XNT 14 DI T) provides themaximum detail at slower boat speeds, however high-speed performance isavailable in the Down Imaging and traditional 2D sonar views.

5. If you have the correct angle set on the transducer, yet lose a bottomreading at high speed, adjust the height and the running angle in smallincrements to give you the ideal transducer position for your boat. First,adjust the height in small increments (Figure 14).

NOTE: The deeper the transducer is in the water, the more likely that a roostertail of spray will be generated at high speeds, so make sure that the transducer isas high as it can be and still be submerged in the water.

If you are still not getting good high speed readings, you may need todisassemble the transducer mounting assembly and re-position the ratchets(Figures 11a - 11d).

If you do change the transducer position, re-trace the position of themounting bracket before proceeding.

NOTE: It is often necessary to make several incremental transducer adjustmentsbefore optimum high speed performance is achieved. Due to the wide variety ofboat hulls, however, it is not always possible to obtain high speed depth readings.

6. Once you have reached a consistently good sonar signal at the desiredspeeds, you are ready to lock down the transducer settings. Re-align themounting bracket against the transom of the boat to match the tracedsilhouette. Check the bracket position with the level again to make sureit is still level, then mark the third mounting hole using a pencil or marker.

7. Unscrew and remove the mounting screws and the transducer assemblyand set aside.

8. Drill the third mounting hole, using a 5/32" (4 mm) drill bit. Use a marine-grade silicone sealant to fill all three drilled mounting holes, especiallyif the holes penetrated the transom wall.

NOTE: On fiberglass hulls, it is best to use progressively larger drill bits to reducethe chance of chipping or flaking the outer coating.

Storing Excess Cable

Figure 17

Transducer Connectors

Hexagon-Shaped Connector Round Connector

screw nut

Figure 18

NOTE: You will drill the third mounting hole and finalize the installationafter you route the cable and test and finish the installation in thefollowing procedures.

Routing the CableExample shown with cableclips and escutcheon plate.Separate purchase required.

Figure 16

9. Re-position the transducer assembly againstthe transom of the boat, then hand-install allthree screws. Make sure that the transducerlocation and the pivot angle have not changed,then fully tighten all three mounting screws(Figure 19). Hand-tighten only! If you haveperformed the preceding procedures correctly,the transducer should be level and at the rightheight for optimal operation.

7. Setting up an Accessory Transducer on the Control HeadThe control head will automatically select the transducer that was included withyour control head. If a compatible accessory transducer is connected to the controlhead, use the following instructions to set the transducer type in the control head.When you select the transducer type, the related views and menus will be addedto the system. Before you proceed, review the following information:

• If your transducer has the round connector, the control head will automatically detect the transducer and configure it with the control head. For additional configuration information, download the Transducer Setup Guide or control head operations manual from our Web site. The instructions in this section do not apply to your fishing system.

• If your fishfinder is a PiranhaMAX™, or does not include the Transducer Select or Connected Transducer menu option, no further action is required. The transducer will be detected automatically if it is compatible with the control head. See your control head operations manual for details.

1. Main Menu: Press the Menu key twice.

2. Select the Sonar tab > Connected Transducer.

3. Press the RIGHT or LEFT Cursor keys to select the transducer type(Dual Beam, Side Imaging, etc.). The available menu options will dependon the installed transducer model.

4. Close: Press the EXIT key until the Menu System is closed. Your controlhead is now ready for operation.

WARNING! Disassembly and repair of this electronic unit should only beperformed by authorized service personnel. Any modification of the serial numberor attempt to repair the original equipment or accessories by unauthorizedindividuals will void the warranty.

WARNING! This product contains chemicals known to the State of Californiato cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE STATEMENT: It is the intention ofJohnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc. to be a responsible corporate citizen, operatingin compliance with known and applicable environmental regulations, and a good neighborin the communities where we make or sell our products.

WEEE DIRECTIVE: EU Directive 2002/96/EC “Waste of Electrical and ElectronicEquipment Directive (WEEE)” impacts most distributors, sellers, and manufacturers ofconsumer electronics in the European Union. The WEEE Directive requires the producer ofconsumer electronics to take responsibility for the management of waste from theirproducts to achieve environmentally responsible disposal during the product life cycle.

WEEE compliance may not be required in your location for electrical & electronic equipment(EEE), nor may it be required for EEE designed and intended as fixed or temporaryinstallation in transportation vehicles such as automobiles, aircraft, and boats. In someEuropean Union member states, these vehicles are considered outside of the scope of theDirective, and EEE for those applications can be considered excluded from the WEEEDirective requirement.

This symbol (WEEE wheelie bin) on product indicates the product must not bedisposed of with other household refuse. It must be disposed of and collected forrecycling and recovery of waste EEE. Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc. willmark all EEE products in accordance with the WEEE Directive. It is our goal to

comply in the collection, treatment, recovery, and environmentally sound disposal of those products; however, these requirements do vary within European Union member states. For more information about where you should dispose of your waste equipment for recycling and recovery and/or your European Union member state requirements, please contact your dealer or distributor from which your product was purchased.

Fully TighteningAll Three Mounting Screws

(Hand tighten only!)

Figure 19

XNT METAL BRACKET & TRANSDUCERINSTALLATION GUIDE

XNT_Metal_Bracket IG_532239-3_A.qxp_Layout 1 11/29/16 6:55 PM Page 1

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